Blue Cruise Guide: 10 Things to Know Before Your First Trip

A blue cruise is a 4–7 day sailing holiday along the Turkish coast aboard a traditional wooden gulet, hopping from bay to bay. Here is what first-timers ask most.

1. Whole boat or cabin charter?

With a whole-boat charter the yacht belongs to your group alone and the route is planned with you. In a cabin charter you share the boat with other guests — cheaper, but the itinerary is fixed.

2. What is included?

On most gulets the crew, fuel, port fees and final cleaning are included. Meals are usually offered as a separate full-board package. Ask for these items line by line when you request a quote.

3. How many people fit?

Capacity depends on the number of cabins. A 4-cabin gulet normally sleeps 8, while the same boat can host 20–25 guests on a day trip. Overnight capacity and day capacity are NOT the same thing.

4. Which month is best?

The season runs from late April to late October. May–June and September offer warm water, fewer crowds and better prices. July–August is the busiest and most expensive period.

5. Will I get seasick?

Blue cruise routes stay close to shore with little open-sea sailing. On windy days the skipper adjusts the route towards sheltered bays.

6. What to pack

• Light-soled, non-slip shoes (black soles are not allowed on deck)
• Hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen
• A light jumper — evenings get cool
• A soft bag rather than a hard suitcase

7. How is a booking confirmed?

You send a request with your dates and party size, the owner confirms availability, and a deposit locks the dates for you. The balance is usually paid on board.

8. Cancellation terms

Most boats allow free cancellation up to a set number of days before departure. The exact figure is stated on the listing — always read it before booking.

9. Internet and power

Most boats have a generator and 220V sockets. Wi-Fi is available on some gulets, but coverage can be weak in remote bays.

10. Tipping

Tipping is not compulsory. If you are happy with the service, leaving 5–10% of the charter price for the crew at the end of the trip is common practice.